Business & Finance High School – ASPIRA
Dr. James Edwards
Principal
jedwards@aspirail.org
Dr. Edwards began his working career in his father’s concrete business where he learned the value of hard work and collaboration. Dr. Edwards eventually returned to school and received his B.A.in History from DePaul University and began his teaching career as a History and Law teacher at Wells High School in Chicago. He went on to serve as an English teacher and college counselor at Noble Street Charter High School. After obtaining his M.A. degree from Chicago State University, he served as a Dean of Students at Morton West High School, Assistant Principal of Curriculum and Instruction at Elmwood Park High School, and Principal at South Elgin and Niles North High Schools. In 2018, he received his Ed.D from Aurora University in Educational Leadership and Supervision.
Dr. Edwards believes that as educators, we are faced with daily challenges and working collaboratively with a solution mindset can lay the foundation for a strong school culture and climate. In his words, “it is also crucial for a school to create a strong sense of connection and belonging where students can feel welcome, flourish academically, and build critical social and emotional skills in preparation for the next phase of their lives.” As principal, Dr. Edwards wants every Aspira graduate to be equity-minded, resilient, empathetic, and passionate learners who exceed expectations with the tools to flourish in college, career, or the workforce.
In his spare time, he enjoys all music genres and small Chicago theater productions. He is an avid plant enthusiast, reader, and a frequent visitor to summer street festivals. Dr. Edwards also volunteers at the Chicago Food Rescue and resides in the Humboldt Park neighborhood of Chicago with his partner and two dogs. He has four grown children who enjoy visiting occasionally.
Mr. Irving Hernandez
Dean of Curriculum and Instruction
ihernandez@aspirail.org
With an educational background that trails from his native Belmont – Cragin Neighborhood in Chicago. Irving Hernandez pursuits equitable access to an impactful educational experience for all parties of the school community (students, guardians, teachers, and staff). Determined to continue growing Aspira Business & Finance High School with an operation of systems that is data driven to ensure effective support for all members of the school community to achieve yearly success in academics, school safety, behavior, attendance, school culture, staff enrichment, and college/career readiness. As a first generation Mexican – American, Hernandez has a bachelor’s degree in physics from Monmouth College, a Master of Arts in Teaching: Science Education from Northeastern Illinois University (NEIU), and is currently on track to complete his second master’s degree in Leadership Education from NEIU. A former Physics teacher with teaching experience servicing school communities like Evanston Township High School, Niles North High School, and Senn High School. Besides working in administration, Hernandez spends his time in his education career as a Teacher – Researcher developing curriculum and mentoring science teachers for universities like: The University of Chicago, Northwestern University, University of Illinois Chicago, and NEIU.
Mrs. Clara Ortiz Johnson
School Dean
cortiz@aspirail.org
Clara Johnson joins Aspira Business and Finance High School as Dean of Students, bringing over 20 years of experience in law enforcement and several years serving as a Dean at the middle school level. Her career has been rooted in public service, safety, and youth development, and she brings a no-nonsense, student-centered approach to leadership.
As a fluent Spanish speaker, Clara understands the importance of cultural identity and strong relationships in helping students succeed. She is deeply committed to creating a safe, structured, and respectful school environment where students are not only held accountable but also supported in building confidence, resilience, and pride in who they are.
Clara believes in working collaboratively with staff, families, and students to create a high school experience that prepares young people academically, socially, and emotionally for the world ahead. She is excited to be part of the ABF team and looks forward to building strong connections within the school community.